Caste Politics Weakens India’s Foundations: Yogi Adityanath

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday criticised caste-based political mobilisation, stating that it weakens the foundations of society and the nation. Addressing the Jauhar Shraddhanjali Samaroh in Chittorgarh, he called for unity and warned against attempts to divide society along caste lines.

Speaking at the event organised by Jauhar Smriti Sansthan at the Inani City Centre, the chief minister said individuals who have “nothing constructive to do” attempt to create divisions in society by spreading caste-based narratives. According to him, such politics undermines national unity and could push the country towards instability if allowed to persist.

Quoting lines from poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, Adityanath emphasised that courage, sacrifice and character — rather than caste identity — have historically defined great warriors. He said the nation must reject divisive politics and instead draw inspiration from historical figures who fought for the country’s honour and unity.

During his speech, the chief minister praised the legacy of Mewar’s warriors and the cultural heritage of Chittorgarh. He described the Chittorgarh Fort as a symbol of India’s identity and resilience. He also paid tribute to historical icons including Maharana Pratap, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Guru Gobind Singh, saying their struggles were not for personal power but for the protection of the nation and faith.

Adityanath also referred to the historical tradition of Jauhar in Chittorgarh, mentioning the events of 1303, 1535 and 1568 as symbols of courage and dignity displayed by women of the region. He said such acts reflected the determination to defend honour and identity even in the face of adversity.

Highlighting developments in Uttar Pradesh, the chief minister said the state had witnessed major improvements in law and order under a zero-tolerance policy towards crime. In a state of nearly 25 crore people, he said, girls are now able to attend schools safely and women can work night shifts and return home without fear.

Adityanath also credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for guiding the transformation in Uttar Pradesh. At the same time, he said the spirit of courage seen in regions such as Rajasthan and Chittorgarh continues to inspire governance and development efforts.

Referring to India’s civilisational heritage, he said the country’s traditional systems — from village economies to artisan networks — historically fostered prosperity. Strengthening local institutions such as Gram Panchayats and community structures, he added, would be crucial in building a self-reliant and developed India.

In his concluding remarks, the chief minister said the values of Sanatan Dharma remain eternal and continue to guide society. He also remarked that while the lineages of rulers such as Babur, Aurangzeb and Akbar are no longer visible today, the descendants of Maharana Pratap continue to uphold his legacy.

The event was attended by several political leaders and dignitaries, including Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Vishvaraj Singh Mewar and C. P. Joshi, along with spiritual leaders and representatives of the organising body.